On Friday, September 11, 2026, Rizes Gastro Taverna, Aestian’s proud restaurant member, hosted a memorable tasting of volcanic wine and gastronomy with a view of the amazing Caldera of Fira.
The Roots of the Earth: A Volcanic Wine & Gastronomy Journey is part of the ongoing celebrations of Greek heritage and local history with a view of one of the most renowned geological formations in Greece.
Greek wine-making tradition has been flourishing for over 3,000 years.
Aestian brand is all about celebrating local tradition and offering cutting-edge luxury to the modern traveler who appreciates the elegance of local flavor.
For the special event, Rizes Gastro Taverna, which has earned a 1 FNL Star and ranked #7 in the FNL Best Restaurant Awards 2026 list by The Skinos List, prepared a special menu of local specialties that perfectly complement the renowned wines of GAIA.
Founded in 1994, GAIA Wines played a pivotal role in promoting Greece’s rich wine heritage both at home and abroad. The brand has been at the forefront of the international wine industry, offering rare blends and high-quality Assyrtiko and Agiorgitiko wines to connoisseurs around the world.
Symphony of Tastes: A Special Menu Created by Chef Alexandros Makropoulos & GAIA Wines
The masterful tasting menu was created by the award-winning Chef and Co-Owner Alexandros Makropoulos.
It was further supported by the professional wine-tasting advice from Rizes’ Head Sommelier Apostolos Maras who guided the guests through an equally impressive journey of flavors course by course and glass by glass
Highlights of the evening included:
• Exotic minerality and flavors of the sea in unique combinations of raw seafood and local herbs with GAIA’s Santorini Assyrtico
• Deep taste notes in velvety Agiorgitico from the Nemea region paired with tender Greek specialties
• The special attention was also drawn to the fascinating contrast between the wines from the high slopes of Nemea and the volcanic rock of Santorini
Aestian’s Commitment to Excellence: Rizes Santorini Offers More than Just Dining
The Roots of the Earth event is yet another manifestation of Aestian’s commitment to delivering unique and high-end gastronomic experiences.
Previously, Rizes Santorini hosted a sell-out dinner in honor of “Two Terroirs, One Vision” , which saw the collaborative efforts of Karamolegos Winery and Arktos Elevation Vineyards.
Aestian hospitality brand and Rizes Santorini restaurant continue to elevate the standard of luxury dining in Fira by introducing unique wine-paired culinary experiences.
Plan Your Own Roots of the Earth Event at Rizes Santorini
Looking to experience a fine dining concept set in the picturesque sunset of Fira? Reserve a table at Rizes Gastro Taverna and discover the famous Greek wines.
Follow along with Aestian and Rizes Santorini for more exciting events, wine-tasting experiences, and special guest chef appearances.
Panagiotis Inglesis is the co-owner and General manager of Athina Luxury Suites, along with his wife Mrs.Artemis Argyrou. Together they had a vision to create one of the best boutique hotels in Santorini and today they continue their vision…Athina Luxury Suites is considered one of the top hotels on the island.